HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) smartphone

Photo: Michael Oryl via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

HTC

HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1)

October 20, 2008 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The HTC Dream, also known as the T-Mobile G1, was a groundbreaking smartphone released in October 2008 as the world's first commercially available device running the Android operating system. It featured a unique slide-out QWERTY keyboard and a physical trackball, marking a significant entry into the nascent smartphone market.
Display3.2-inch HVGA TFT touchscreen
ChipsetQualcomm MSM7201A
Main Camera3.15 MP autofocus
Battery1150 mAh removable Li-Ion
Starting from $90

💰 HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) Price

The HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) lowest price is $90, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeTFT capacitive touchscreen, 65K colors
Size3.2 inches
Resolution320 x 480 pixels, HVGA (~180 ppi density)
ProtectionNot specified

Platform

OSAndroid 1.0 (upgradable to Android 1.6 Donut)
ChipsetQualcomm MSM7201A
CPU528 MHz ARM 11
GPUAdreno 130

Memory

Internal256 MB ROM, 192 MB RAM
Card slotmicroSD, up to 16 GB (1GB card often included)

Main Camera

Single3.15 MP, autofocus
FeaturesGeo-tagging (requires microSD card for saving photos)
VideoNo video recording at launch

Selfie Camera

SingleNone

Battery

TypeRemovable Li-Ion 1150 mAh battery
Talk timeUp to 5.8 h (3G) / 6.76 h (2G)
Stand-byUp to 130 h

Body

Dimensions117.7 x 55.7 x 17.1 mm (4.63 x 2.19 x 0.67 in)
Weight158 g (5.6 oz)
SIMMini-SIM
BuildPlastic body with a slide-out QWERTY keyboard and a "chin" design.

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11b/g
Bluetooth2.0, A2DP
GPSA-GPS
NFCNo
RadioNo
USBExtUSB (Mini-USB compatible)

Launch

AnnouncedSeptember 2008
StatusDiscontinued

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Pioneering Android operating system
  • Physical QWERTY keyboard for efficient typing
  • Integrated Google services
  • Expandable storage via microSD
  • User-replaceable battery

Cons

  • Bulky and heavy design
  • No 3.5mm headphone jack
  • No video recording at launch
  • Limited internal storage
  • "Chin" design and keyboard trough were considered awkward by some
  • Early Android OS had limitations compared to later versions
★ Our Verdict

While revolutionary as the first Android phone with strong Google integration and a physical keyboard, its bulky design, lack of a standard headphone jack, and initial software limitations prevented it from being a perfect device.

The HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) is a historical artifact rather than a practical daily driver in today's smartphone landscape. If you're a collector or an enthusiast interested in the origins of Android, it's a fascinating piece of technology to own. However, its outdated operating system, limited app compatibility, slow performance, and lack of modern features make it unsuitable for contemporary use. Expect to pay a premium for well-preserved or new-in-box collector's items, but be aware that its functionality will be severely restricted on modern networks and with current applications. Consider it a museum piece for display and historical appreciation.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) Handset
  • 1150 mAh Battery
  • Mini-USB Sync Cable
  • USB AC Adapter
  • Stereo Headphones
  • Manuals

Standard manufacturer's warranty at the time of purchase, typically one year.

❓ Questions & Answers

What was the significance of the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1)?

The HTC Dream, also known as the T-Mobile G1, holds historical significance as the first commercially released smartphone to run Google's Android operating system, marking the beginning of Android's dominance in the mobile market.

When was the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) released?

The HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) was first released on October 20, 2008 through T-Mobile.

Did the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) have a physical keyboard?

Yes, the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) featured a distinctive slide-out QWERTY physical keyboard, which was a popular input method at the time of its release.

What operating system did the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) run?

The HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) launched with Android 1.0, making it the inaugural device for the Android operating system, and was later upgradable to Android 1.6 Donut.

Can the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) still be used today?

While technically functional, the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) is largely obsolete for modern use due to its outdated operating system, limited app support, and compatibility issues with current network technologies. It is primarily a collector's item.

Did the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) have a headphone jack?

No, the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) did not feature a standard 3.5mm headphone jack; instead, it utilized a proprietary ExtUSB port for audio output.